Re: Low cholesterol

Posted By TS on June 28, 1999 at 12:31:54
I can find all kinds of information about high cholesterol and how to lower it, but there is very little on LOW cholesterol.  What can you tell me about problems associated with a very low cholesterol level?  
About four weeks ago, I had a lipid profile (12 hour fast) that showed the following: total-85   HDL-42   LDL-25   VLDL-18   Triglyc-90   ratio 2:1.
The total of 85 is lower than previous totals I've had (at health fair screenings) when blood was taken by finger-*****.  Totals from those screenings ranged from 96 to 100: still lower than the general population.
My GP says the lower, the better - and not to worry.  What little information I have been able to find seems to indicate that a total cholesterol below 140-160 correlates with higher mortality rates (although causation hasn't really been demonstrated).  Also, new AHA evidence indicates that very low levels may increase the chance of having a hemorrhagic stroke.
Can you provide any other information on low cholesterol?  What other risks are you aware of?  Should I try to raise my levels?

[Cleveland Clinic, MD]

Posted By CCF CARDIO MD - CRC on June 28, 1999 at 16:34:13
No, I wouldn't try to raise your cholesterol level.  The problem with the studies you mention is that it is somewhat of a chicken and egg problem.  It is true in epidemologic studies that individuals with low cholesterol levels have more subhemorrhagic bleeds but it may be that these people are debilitated and this is why their cholesterol levels are low in the first place.  The good news is that you are at very low risk of heart disease.
I hope you find this information useful.  Information provided in the heart forum is for general purposes only.  Only your physician can provide specific diagnoses and therapies.  Please feel free to write back with additional questions.
If you would like to make an appointment at the Cleveland Clinic Heart Center, please call 1-800-CCF-CARE or inquire online by using the Heart Center website at www.ccf.org/heartcenter.  The Heart Center website contains a directory of the cardiology staff that can be used to select the physician best suited to address your cardiac problem.

[carol-sumers]

Posted By carol summers on July 03, 1999 at 13:23:37
my 79 year old mother has dropped her cholesterol level to about the same as the person posting above.  she has begun to have mini strokes.  could this be the subhemorrhagic bleeds you are talking about?  i was also told that certain heart meds can cause small clots which in term cause strokes.  can you please expand on these areas?










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